AN ALLEGED killer, believed to have shot dead a young man in cold blood, is on the run, Scotland Yard said last night. But police cannot warn the public how dangerous he is because of a legal loophole.

Detectives are appealing for information on the 16-year-old, but the law forbids them naming him or publishing his photograph in connection with the shooting because of his age.

Detective Superintendent Brian Edwards, in charge of the murder investigation, said: 'He cannot be named in any way that connects him to the general court proceedings or any offence because he is under 18. Publicity does help, but in circumstances such as these we find ourselves unable to get publicity.'

Det Supt Edwards refused to say if the law should be changed but hinted there may be a case for reviewing the legislation.

He would also not be drawn on whether the youth is a danger to the public, but added: 'Obviously there's got to be some cause for concern.'